4 Things That Make Soccer Fans Better Christians

By Jordan Sauceda

13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. (NIV)

I have greatly enjoyed watching the 2014 FIFA World Cup. I played soccer (or futbol for you non-Americans) in my younger days and have been anticipating this World Cup, which is being held in Brazil (Futbol Heaven). This year has not disappointed. Reigning champs, Spain, lost twice. The USA did well with advancing to the round of 16. Brazil got stomped by Germany 7-1. Some teams have made their fellow countrymen soar with pride (Costa Rica over Italy). Others have felt like their hearts were ripped out of their chest (Netherlands over Mexico). There is something special about the game that brings the world together, something almost sacred. 

So here is my stretch-of-a-claim that soccer fans make better Christians. Be prepared for pure opinion:

#1 Global Awareness

You can find soccer fans/players just about everywhere in the world. Soccer fans will know (or at least heard of) more nations than the non-soccer fans on average. When a Christ-centered believer is learns about other nations it can lead to good things happening. Mission trips, donations, dedicated prayer, etc. They grow in global awareness.  

#2 Faithfulness and Patience

It may take a long time for your team to score a goal. Like a really,really long time...sometimes you have to wait several games until your team scores a goal. Goals in life can take awhile. Christ-centered believers will understand the fruit of staying faithful and having patience. 

#3 Passionate, Joyful Noise Makers

Kids of all ages will shout and scream an unadulterated cry of the heart when their underdog team wins. When an average team wins an unlikely championship new, joyful sounds can be heard filling stadiums in what seems to be a religious experience. The Psalmist writes Shout joyfully to the LORD, all the earth; Break forth and sing for joy and sing praises. Christ-centered believers that enjoy soccer will not only be willing to "shout joyfully to the LORD"; I'm convinced that soccer fans are leading the chant and pushing the limits of the human voice.

#4 Steadfast Spirit

Soccer is non-stop. The clock doesn't stop. There are no timeouts. Often after all 90 minutes have been played, the match still doesn't stop. Then there is extra time. The players have to be conditioned to run, and then kick, and run some more. Sometimes players are glad when an injury occurs so they can at least take a knee and breathe. Yikes! As a believer, we know that we can't just take days off. Everyday is a day that the Lord has made and should be used wisely for His glory. As we "press on toward the goal" we do so with a steadfast spirit that tries and longs to win the prize. 

If I'm right about any of this, then let's try to be better soccer fans. 

It is the sport that the world plays. 

Let's keep watching and just maybe we'll know how to learn, wait, shout joyfully, and stay strong.

Keep Kicking,

Jordan